The hottest Social justice Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Trans People and Sports: Everything You Need to Know

Switch Hitter • 1415 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Social justice
  1. Trans women athletes do not dominate women's sports. Studies show that after transitioning and hormone therapy, they often compete at levels similar to cis women, so claims of unfair advantage are not supported by evidence.
  2. Anti-trans sports bans are part of a broader strategy to restrict the rights of trans people. These bans are not just about sports but aim to undermine trans people's existence in various public spheres.
  3. The controversies around trans women in sports often stem from misunderstandings about gender and biology. Much of the debate is less about fairness in competition and more about protecting an outdated perception of gender purity.

WPATH, part II: The gist

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 1924 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health is now calling itself 'evidence-based', but some parts of their research have been held back, which affects their practice.
  2. They are aware of problems in their field, like overly simplistic assessment tools, but are trying to move towards more inclusive and open-ended questions.
  3. There are concerns about patients, especially young people, wanting to revert their gender decisions, which highlights the importance of supporting individual choices.

Marilyn (Molly) Marcus, 1942-2026

Marcus on AI • 25057 implied HN points • 24 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Social justice
  1. Practice deep empathy: assume people are fundamentally similar, pay attention to their struggles, and treat them with kindness.
  2. Pay attention to the whole world and to people from all backgrounds—notice who is present, fight for social justice, and believe that every life matters.
  3. Prioritize relationships and steady, quiet support over wealth. Write for yourself to process and share stories, and stand by people without judgment.

The underside narrative surfaces

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 2956 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Gavin Grimm faced a lot of bullying and rejection after coming out as transgender, which made life very difficult for him. His transition didn't solve all his problems and instead brought new challenges that he had to deal with.
  2. Grimm's story highlights the serious mental health issues that can arise, like PTSD, after being bullied and misunderstood. Even with support from friends and some family, the pain of being rejected really affected his well-being.
  3. There are questions about how well the medical community takes into account the unique struggles of transgender people, especially in cases like Grimm's. Just transitioning doesn't guarantee a happy future, and many still face tough realities.

Les privilèges c’est tout ce que tu peux oublier

L'Atelier Galita • 199 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Social justice
  1. Privilege can mean having the choice to think about certain aspects of your identity, while others may not have that luxury.
  2. Some people may feel their race or gender all the time, while others may not think about their own privilege until it affects them directly.
  3. Not recognizing one's privilege can influence everyday experiences, such as feeling safe in public spaces or being treated differently in shops.
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When Demand for Victims Outruns Supply

Freddie deBoer • 6095 implied HN points • 04 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Social justice
  1. Some people instinctively hunt for exploitation or victimhood even when the people involved say the relationship was consensual and positive.
  2. Social media can amplify niche complaints into wide moral panics, expanding issues like age-gap scrutiny beyond romance into friendship and collaboration.
  3. We should ask why the demand for victims persists and who benefits from labeling healthy relationships as abusive, since that impulse influences the direction of progressive norms.

Why We All Care About Inequality (But Are Loath to Admit It)

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 1479 implied HN points • 07 Feb 26
🌍 World Politics Social justice
  1. People care about inequality because other people’s incomes affect their own wellbeing through social comparison, a sense of justice, and self-worth, not just because of how much they can buy.
  2. Focusing only on poverty while ignoring inequality is inconsistent, since concern for the poorest still relies on judgments about how income is distributed and who counts as a relevant peer.
  3. Opposition to studying or criticizing inequality often protects the status quo, and people’s reactions to inequality reflect motives like fairness or disgust as well as envy.

No, you are not on Indigenous land

Noahpinion • 106119 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Land ownership is complicated and often involves historical conquests, meaning most land has been taken and reclaimed many times throughout history.
  2. Assigning land ownership based on race or ethnic groups might create more conflict rather than solve past injustices. Instead, citizenship and belonging should be based on institutions, not ethnicity.
  3. Supporting Native American tribes today means respecting their modern institutions and allowing them autonomy in developing their land rather than just acknowledging past grievances.

'First Blood,' Individual Rights, and the Subversion of the Law

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 337 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The film 'First Blood' shows how misinterpretations of the law can lead to violence. It highlights that police encounters aimed at enforcing minor laws can escalate badly.
  2. Rambo's experience reminds us that police are people who can make mistakes. This stresses the idea that policing should focus on real crimes rather than petty behaviors.
  3. When the law is used to infringe on individual rights, it loses its true purpose. The film teaches us to question the role of police in everyday situations.

Everyone's A Based Post-Christian Vitalist Until The Grooming Gangs Show Up

Astral Codex Ten • 39093 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Social justice
  1. People often care more about issues close to home than distant suffering, even if they claim to be indifferent. It's easy to ignore problems that don't directly affect us.
  2. When something shocking happens, like the grooming gangs, people suddenly show emotional support and demand action. This shows that we can and do care about issues when they hit home.
  3. Our moral beliefs can be confusing and sometimes contradictory. We need to face these contradictions and acknowledge that we can care about suffering everywhere, not just where it's convenient for us.

Things That Are Hard

Freddie deBoer • 10210 implied HN points • 18 Aug 25
🏥 Health Politics Social justice
  1. Support groups can feel repetitive and unhelpful, but individuals often realize they provided benefits after leaving. The casual conversations before and after meetings can be valuable for connection.
  2. People tend to view mental illness in extremes, either as all good or all bad, which can complicate how they relate to those who are struggling. This can make it hard for individuals to receive the understanding and support they need.
  3. True accommodation for mental health issues means being willing to support those who display difficult behaviors, no matter how unlikable they may seem. It's important to recognize that mental illness can lead to actions that are not socially acceptable.

James Baldwin Was Not Your Figurehead

Freddie deBoer • 10488 implied HN points • 15 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Social justice
  1. James Baldwin resisted being tied to any specific political movement. He believed that labeling him simplified his complex thoughts and experiences.
  2. Baldwin's work focused on individuality and moral understanding instead of strict identity politics. He felt categories like race and sexual orientation should not define who someone is.
  3. He argued that real freedom comes from individuals taking action for themselves, rather than conforming to ideologies or identities created by others.

The Craziest Thing In The World Is That We Could End Poverty, But We Don't

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2374 implied HN points • 01 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Social justice
  1. We already have the technology and resources to give everyone a decent standard of living, but we don't end poverty because it isn't profitable.
  2. Capitalism's driving goal of maximizing profit causes exploitation, war, and environmental destruction while neglecting human welfare.
  3. To survive, we must replace profit-driven systems with cooperative, compassionate structures and urgently reorganize society around the common good.

Liberalism is the rebellion now

Noahpinion • 29882 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Liberalism, which values individual freedom and dignity, is losing its presence in politics today. People are beginning to feel that discussing freedom is not as popular or important as it used to be.
  2. Societal freedoms are decreasing, with fewer leaders advocating for individual rights. Issues like abortion and freedom of speech are increasingly under threat from both political sides.
  3. In today's world, believing in liberal ideals feels like joining a rebellion against powerful authoritarian influences. People who support freedom and dignity are now faced with many challenges and obstacles.

Our new book is out today!

The Path Not Taken • 220 implied HN points • 17 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Social justice
  1. A new book, Beyond Woke and Anti-Woke, has been published to explain the rise of social justice ideology; the Kindle is inexpensive, the hardback is priced for academia, and a paperback will follow.
  2. The book argues social justice ideology is a recent and distinctive phenomenon that scholars have largely overlooked and calls for using established academic theories and methods to study it.
  3. Promotion includes articles and extracts on multiple online platforms, readers are invited to support the project, and more related posts are planned soon.

This is How Much America Still Hates Women

Culture Study • 28623 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Many people in America still prefer male leaders, even if they are not competent, over qualified women. This shows a deep-rooted bias against women in politics.
  2. There is a troubling belief that women's bodies should be controlled by the state, often with men making those decisions. This reflects a dangerous mindset about women's rights and lives.
  3. Despite feeling defeated, it's important to keep fighting for a better future. Our determination and faith in change can drive progress, even in difficult times.

Our Healthcare System, a Reign of Terror

Freddie deBoer • 18038 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Social justice
  1. Many people only react strongly to certain types of suffering and fail to recognize the ongoing harm of our healthcare system. It's important to think about why we care more about some victims than others.
  2. Our healthcare system often denies essential care to those who need it, leading to tragic outcomes. The choices made by companies and policymakers directly affect people's lives and deaths.
  3. There's a disconnect in how society views death caused by healthcare versus murder. We need to acknowledge and address the systemic issues causing suffering in our healthcare system, rather than just express sympathy for individual cases.

Why "we" want insurance executives dead

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 18512 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. People are really angry at insurance executives because they feel these leaders cause a lot of suffering by denying necessary healthcare. It's common for them to wish these executives faced the same pain they see others go through.
  2. Many people believe the healthcare system in the U.S. is broken and that executives profit while patients suffer. This has led to outrage, and some even make jokes or comments about violent retribution, which reflects their frustration.
  3. The media often focuses on the reactions to these comments instead of addressing the real issues within the healthcare system. Many individuals want change and accountability from those in power rather than violence.

Just us

Philosophy bear • 143 implied HN points • 21 Feb 26
📖 Philosophy Social justice
  1. Activist circles practice strict operational security: they keep phones far away, use encrypted apps like Signal, and avoid discussing illegal acts even in private chats.
  2. Their direct actions are mostly modest—occupying buildings, graffiti, lock-ons, squatting, and small-scale property damage—and are driven by a sense of justice rather than a desire to harm people.
  3. There’s frustration that powerful people often act recklessly and leave clear evidence, which feels hypocritical compared with how careful ordinary activists must be.

Protestors Stage Die-Ins At Several Florida DMVs Over Trans Drivers License Ban

Erin In The Morning • 5011 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Protesters staged die-ins at multiple Florida DMVs against the new policy prohibiting transgender individuals from changing their gender markers on driver's licenses.
  2. The protests were organized by various organizations in Florida and involved over 100 participants laying on the ground for 37 minutes to symbolize the challenges faced by transgender individuals.
  3. The risks associated with incorrect gender markers on official documents for transgender individuals include increased harassment and abuse, while correct gender markers are crucial for lowering suicide risk and supporting their transition.

The Coming Labor War

Dana Blankenhorn: Facing the Future • 99 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Workers in many fields, including tech, are facing pay cuts and longer workdays due to changes like returning to the office. This shift can feel like a 20% decrease in salary when you consider added costs and time.
  2. Many employers believe they don't need the human workforce because of advancements in AI and automation. But this belief ignores the reality that people are essential for gathering data and driving the economy.
  3. There is a growing movement among workers, including office employees, to demand better wages and working conditions. As more people realize they are part of the labor force, we might see significant changes in workers' rights in the near future.

Judith Butler with a Pretty Damn Good Indictment of Identity Politics!

Freddie deBoer • 12623 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The election results suggest that identity politics didn't cost Democrats the vote. Voters were more concerned about issues like the economy and immigration.
  2. People get frustrated when they're talked down to, and this negativity can hurt political movements. It's important to engage people without making them feel judged.
  3. Criticism of identity politics isn't just from the right; many thinkers on the left have also raised valid concerns. There's a need for honest reflection on how these ideas have shaped recent political events.

Extreme Wealth

In My Tribe • 880 implied HN points • 22 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. There is a growing divide between the ultra-rich and everyone else, with the top 10% holding a huge portion of the wealth and spending power. This affects how society and institutions function.
  2. Philanthropy isn't always the answer to help those in need. Businesses that seek profit can sometimes create better outcomes than nonprofits because they are held accountable by customers.
  3. Everyone has a role in addressing extreme wealth. The wealthy should practice restraint in their earnings, while the rest of us shouldn't flatter or rely on the rich for our wellbeing.

If You're Still Supporting Israel In 2025, There's Something Wrong With You As A Person

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 3259 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. People need to be aware of the serious actions happening in Gaza and the impacts these have, including the suffering of civilians and the involvement of various human rights organizations acknowledging these atrocities.
  2. Supporting unjust actions or violence, like those attributed to Israel against Palestinians, shows a lack of empathy and moral understanding. It highlights a troubling mindset about human rights.
  3. It's important to recognize that debates about such serious issues are not just political opinions; they directly relate to human lives and suffering, and therefore deserve serious consideration and response.

Stopping The Gaza Holocaust Is The First Step Toward A Healthy World

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2491 implied HN points • 12 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The situation in Palestine highlights many deeper issues in society, such as racism and government corruption. It's seen as a crucial moral issue that reflects the state of the world.
  2. Opposing violence and injustice in Gaza is essential for any healthy society. If people ignore such serious issues, it shows a lack of empathy and awareness.
  3. To create positive change in the world, focusing on groups and individuals who stand against oppression in Gaza is key. They are likely to have better ideas and actions moving forward.

Israel's Genocidal Intentions Have Been Obvious This Whole Time

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2370 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Many people are starting to believe that what is happening in Gaza is genocide. This realization is overdue and based on observable facts.
  2. The aggressive actions taken against the people in Gaza suggest an intention to eliminate them completely. It raises questions about the long-term consequences of such violence.
  3. Statements from leaders indicate that the current actions are aimed at removing all Palestinians from Gaza. This pattern of behavior shows a clear disregard for the lives of innocent people.

The Auckland Women’s Centre NZ knows how to beat the patriarchy – shame it’s completely bonkers.

A B’Old Woman • 639 implied HN points • 20 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Social justice
  1. There's a debate about including trans women in women's spaces and sports. Some believe it's necessary for ending patriarchy, while others think it threatens women's rights.
  2. The Auckland Women’s Centre promotes trans rights, arguing that supporting all gender identities helps fight against discrimination. They see trans rights as part of women's rights.
  3. There are concerns about the effects of transphobia, claiming it distracts from real issues facing women and undermines everyone who doesn't fit traditional gender roles.

Why Georgists use the 🔰 mark

Progress and Poverty • 3309 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The Georgist movement believes in humility and learning from others to bring about real change. Activists are encouraged to understand people's objections and communicate compassionately.
  2. The 🔰 mark, adopted by Georgists, symbolizes being a beginner and the need for patience and humility, much like new drivers needing extra care on the road.
  3. As society faces economic inequality again, the Georgist approach to land reform is seen as vital. They aim to advocate for sharing land effectively, rather than falling into old traps of ideological conflict.

Zionism Is What It Does

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1979 implied HN points • 21 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Zionism is not just about Jewish self-determination; it has led to actions like genocide, apartheid, and ethnic cleansing in reality. It’s important to see what it truly represents today.
  2. Many people used to support Israel but are now distancing themselves due to its actions, which have contradicted the values they believe in.
  3. Some supporters of Israel have faith-based reasons for their stance, making rational debate difficult because their beliefs don’t rely on facts or evidence.

Very Weird Ideas About What It Means to Respect Someone's Political Project

Freddie deBoer • 5754 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The term 'woke' often means caring about other people, but some feel this definition flattens complex ideas about social justice. It can sound condescending when simplified.
  2. Many people work hard to understand and advocate for social justice, and their efforts deserve more respect than just being labeled as 'nice.'
  3. Using praise that oversimplifies someone's political values can be frustrating for those deeply invested in their beliefs, making it feel dismissive rather than supportive.

Know Them By Their Fruits

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2277 implied HN points • 25 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. We should focus on the real actions of those in power, rather than just their words. Actions often speak louder than promises or justifications.
  2. The current situation shows the harsh reality of how some governments operate. It's a reminder that we need to pay attention to the outcomes of their decisions.
  3. Understanding who our leaders really are requires looking at the consequences of their actions. We need to be aware of these realities and hold them accountable.

Practice Small, Daily Acts Of Sabotage Against The Imperial Machine

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2696 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Do something small every day to challenge and change how people see powerful systems and institutions. It can be as simple as sharing information or sparking conversations.
  2. Help others see the negative impacts of governments and powerful groups on daily life. Point out the lies and manipulations to foster a clearer understanding of reality.
  3. Collectively, we can work toward a better society by opening each other's eyes to the truth. Even small acts can contribute to major change when done together.

Only Liars And Manipulators Say Gaza Isn't Starving

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1671 implied HN points • 24 Aug 25
🌍 World Politics Social justice
  1. Reports from Gaza show that many people, especially children, are severely malnourished due to a lack of food. Medical professionals are witnessing firsthand the devastating effects of starvation.
  2. The UN has declared the famine in Gaza as man-made, urging immediate action to address the crisis. Despite this, some officials have dismissed these findings, claiming they are false.
  3. Continuous denials from Israel about starving civilians raise questions about the truth of their actions. If a country repeatedly has to deny such claims, it likely suggests there's something serious happening.

Concentration Camp Labor

Thinking about... • 1585 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Concentration camps can become places for exploitative labor, similar to practices seen in history. It's important to be aware of how such systems can benefit companies financially.
  2. Individuals and companies should actively refuse to use or support labor from concentration camps to prevent normalization of such practices. Simple pledges can make a strong statement against this exploitation.
  3. The choices we make today, like where to shop or invest, can help fight against the rise of concentration camps and protect vulnerable populations. Every small action contributes to a larger movement against injustice.